Prevalence of <i>Brucella abortus</i> in Cattle in the Njala and Newton Ranches of Sierra Leone Using Serological Analysis

Abstract

Brucellosis disease is problematic in early abortion in herds, reduces the economic value of farm animals, reduces milk production and limits the breeding efficiency of cattle. A study was conducted to determine and compare the prevalence of antibodies against <i>Brucella abortus</i> in cattle under same husbandry practices at the Njala University, Njala campus and the Newton cattle holding ranches. A total of 80 cattle was randomly sampled and screened for the presence of <i>B. abortus </i>utilizing the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT). Results indicated that the general seroprevalence was 57.5% in Njala University cattle ranch and 92.5% Newton cattle ranch. The prevalence of infection increased with the age of animals i.e. from 3.75% to 47.5% (22.5%) in age groups <3yrs to 3-5yrs (5-8yrs), respectively. The female animals were more infected (52.5%) than the males (22.5%). The disease was more prevalent among different age groups and sexes in Newton cattle ranch than in Njala University. Findings showed no significant difference between the prevalence of <i>B. abortus</i> in the cattle of Njala University and Newton cattle ranches. The prevalence of brucellosis was however enzootic at the two studied sites. This study is relevant for policy makers, researchers, ministry of agriculture and the public for the promotion of regular testing of cattle and utilizing appropriate mitigation strategies to minimize the risk of the brucellosis disease.